Relaunch of Never OK campaign to tackle abuse against staff

We are proud to relaunch our Never OK campaign this week, reinforcing the clear message that abuse against NHS staff will never be tolerated.

In 2024/25, there were 383 reported incidents of abuse against our staff, including physical, verbal, and racial abuse, as well as sexual harassment. Sadly, we know there are many more incidents that go unreported.

The Never OK campaign first launched in 2016 and is a vital part of our ongoing commitment to staff safety and wellbeing. This year’s relaunch brings a refreshed look and a powerful message, putting real staff at the centre of the campaign. Through videos, posters, and digital displays, we’re sharing their personal stories to highlight the lasting impact abuse can have.

A new video, titled “I was just trying to help you”, features brave and honest reflections from colleagues who have experienced abuse at work. These are real stories, and we hope they will encourage everyone who comes through our doors to treat our staff with the respect they deserve.

The campaign comes at a crucial time, following the results of our 2024 Staff Survey. The survey found that just over 24% of staff had experienced bullying, harassment or abuse from patients or the public in the past year, with 12% reporting at least one incident of physical abuse.

To support the relaunch, trainee officers from Wiltshire Police will be on site on Thursday 19 and Friday 20 June, visiting wards and departments to speak with staff and hand out campaign materials. We are grateful for their continued partnership in helping to keep our hospital a safe and respectful place for everyone.

Patients and visitors are reminded that any abuse towards staff may be reported to and investigated by the police. 

We stand with every member of staff. Abuse is never part of the job. It is never acceptable. It is Never OK.